A major demographic issue for India in the 21st century is the ageing population with wide implications for economy and society. With the advancement in medical science, life expectancy of people has increased, but the retirement age still stands at 60. Upon attaining the age of 60 years, irrespective of whether the person wishes to continue working or is capable of working, he/she is compulsorily retired, leaving them with lesser sources to generate income.
THE NEED: Unlike in developed countries, where the social security systems and health services take care of the retired elderly, the resources in India, both from the government and the private sectors are very limited to provide senior citizens basic benefits like healthcare, food, housing and economic security. In India, only 10 per cent of retired employees get pension from the government / former employers and the other 90 percent are forced to survive on their savings which often get exhausted within a few years of retirement. Thus, post-retirement, elders often end up depending on their children or other family members for financial help. This lack of economic independence further leads to distress within the family, stealing dignity and independence from the aged, leading to some form of elder abuse.
WHAT WE DO: Nightingales Jobs 60+ an initiative of Nightingales Empowerment Foundation (NEF) was established in 2011 to provide a financially independent life for healthy and employable retired elders by enabling them to re-enter the job market or become self-employed.
